31 October 2017

The First Minister visited Dundee to announce a significant expansion to the Family Nurse Partnership (FNP) programme. The extension will mean up to 60 additional family nurses recruited nation-wide – meaning all eligible first time mums will be able to benefit from the scheme by the end of next year.

NHS Tayside hosted the event to celebrate their own FNP programme, which has seen their team support more than 1,000 young women since 2011, with almost 500 graduated to date.

All eligible mums will be able to benefit from the Family Nurse Partnership by the end of next year. pic.twitter.com/V51nXxzqb7

— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) October 30, 2017

The First Minster met young women who have benefited from the programme, along with their children and family nurses.

FM @NicolaSturgeon announces expansion of Family Nurse Partnership on visit to @NHSTayside @SGChildMaternal https://t.co/AdMzrfnaVI pic.twitter.com/q72HLgJQUE

— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) October 30, 2017

She was also joined by Charlotte Liddell, a graduate of the FNP programme in Fife who is also being mentored by the First Minister. Charlotte presented a bouquet of flowers to say thank you to her family nurse.

2 incredible ladies!
Who who made a massive impact in my past and another who is making a massive impact on my future @NicolaSturgeon #FNP pic.twitter.com/JRqcXz6c7g

— charlotte liddell (@char_mentee) October 30, 2017

Through the FNP, highly trained nurses give a wide range of support to ensure the child gets the best possible start in life. It is open to first-time mums aged 19 and under.

The First Minister said:

“The Family Nurse Partnership has helped thousands of children and first-time mums across Scotland. Events, like this one in Dundee, demonstrate the positive impact that family nurses can have on the families they work with.

“We want to ensure every eligible mother can access this support, and the expansion of the programme will make that a reality.”